In the summer of 1717, after performing his Water Music during a royal cruise on the Thames, Handel began composing for James Brydges (1674-1744), who became the first Duke of Chandos and created the... more

Among Handel's seventeen English oratorios, Theodora (1750) is unique. The story is not taken from the Bible, it is set in the Christian era, there is no national triumph and it does not end in joy.... more

The sonata concertata form is perfectly illustrated in these trios by Dietrich Buxtehude which, according to Peter Wollny constitute 'a landmark in the history of the sonata'. They provide a better... more

The Gramophone Award-winning ensemble Arcangelo presents a selection from Monteverdi's last three books of madrigals. These ardent and passionate works are microcosms of Monteverdi's great operas and... more

Although he already has a rich stage and recording career behind him, this is Tim Mead's first solo album. 'Juxtaposing the sacred and secular aspects of Vivaldi's work, this program explores the... more

On this fascinating release, the music of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and his father Leopold bookend a virtuosic recital from Ursula Paludan Monberg. She traces the development of the natural horn as a... more